How to Unlock the Butterflies Lens on Snapchat (Working Methods)

Snapchat continues to lead the way in augmented reality (AR) creativity. One of its most viral filters, the Butterflies Lens turns ordinary Snaps into mesmerizing, fluttering visuals filled with colorful butterflies. But as of 2025, unlocking certain lenses (like this one) can be tricky since Snapchat updates and removes filters regularly.

This guide explains how to unlock the Butterflies Lens on Snapchat in 2025, why it sometimes disappears, and how to access community-made versions that go viral every few months.

What Makes the Butterflies Lens So Popular?

The Butterflies Lens isn’t just an effect, it’s part of a long-standing Snapchat AR trend. First launched in 2018, it reappears every few months with updated designs and colors. According to Snap Inc.’s 2025 AR Usage Report, over 75% of daily active users interact with Lenses, and nature-inspired filters like Butterflies and Flower Crown rank among the top three.

The lens works by using facial and environmental tracking Snapchat’s AI detects your face and applies realistic 3D butterfly animations that react to your movements. Newer versions even use depth mapping (powered by the iPhone LiDAR sensor and Android’s ARCore) for a more immersive look.

How Snapchat Lenses Work (Quick Insight)

Each Snapchat Lens is powered by Lens Studio, an AR creation platform that lets users and developers design filters using 3D models, motion tracking, and real-time effects.
Butterflies Lens, for instance, uses:

• Facial landmark detection to position butterflies on cheeks, nose, or forehead.

• Particle physics simulation to make wings flutter dynamically.

• Color grading filters for cinematic glow and light diffusion.

Expert insight: The reason some Lenses disappear is because their creators remove them, or Snapchat archives older versions to reduce app load. You can still unlock them manually (explained below).

How to Unlock the Butterflies Lens on Snapchat (2025 Methods)

Here are all verified methods to access or re-unlock the lens even if it’s not currently visible in the Lens Carousel.

1. Unlock via Lens Link from a Friend

Still the easiest and fastest way.

Steps:

1. Ask a friend who already has the Butterflies Lens.

2. Have them open the Lens, tap the Share → Send Lens Link option.

3. Tap the link they send you Snapchat will open directly to that filter.

4. Tap Unlock for 48 hours (or “Unlock Permanently” if available).

Pro Tip: Save the Lens to your favorites so you can access it later, even if it’s removed from public view.

2. Use a Snapcode Image

If no one around has the filter, you can scan its Snapcode a yellow QR-style image.

Steps:

1. Open Snapchat’s camera.

2. Point it at a verified Butterfly Lens Snapcode (many creators post these on Reddit or TikTok).

3. Tap and hold to scan.

4. The Lens will load automatically.

Why this works: Every Lens on Snapchat has a unique Lens ID embedded in the Snapcode, similar to a website’s URL.

3. Search and Explore in the Lens Carousel

Steps:

1. Open Snapchat → tap the smiley face icon beside the camera button.

2. Tap Explore in the lower-right corner.

3. In the search bar, type “Butterflies Lens” or “Paper Butterfly by JP Pirie.”

4. Choose the version that fits your aesthetic soft pastel, neon, realistic, or glittery.

4. Create or Customize One Using Lens Studio

Want a unique version? You can make your own butterfly effect in Lens Studio (Snap’s free AR design app).

Quick Guide:

• Download Lens Studio on your desktop.

• Choose a prebuilt AR Particle Template.

• Replace default particles with butterfly models (available in Snap’s asset library).

• Customize flutter speed, lighting, and camera distance.

• Publish it to your profile or share it privately.

Expert opinion: Custom lenses perform better in 2025 because Snapchat prioritizes “community-created AR experiences” in Discover results.

5. Try New from Someone’s Snap

If you receive or see a Snap using the Butterflies Lens:

1. Tap Try Lens at the bottom of the screen.

2. The app will open the exact filter instantly.

3. Add it to your favorites for future use.

Why the Butterflies Lens May Be Locked or Missing

If you can’t find the lens, it’s usually because:

• Snapchat removed the creator’s version due to copyright or inactivity.

• You cleared cache or reinstalled the app.

• Regional restrictions hide certain AR filters.

Fix: Go to Settings → Lenses → Manage Preferences → Clear Lens Cache, then restart Snapchat.

Other Apps With Similar Butterfly Filters (2025)

Snapchat isn’t the only platform offering butterfly effects.
Here’s how they compare:

People Also Ask (2025 Updates)

Q1: Can I share the Butterflies Lens with friends?
Yes! Tap Share Lens → Copy Link or send directly through chat. They can unlock it instantly.

Q2: How many Butterfly Lenses exist now?
As of 2025, there are over 50 versions, from classic paper butterflies to glowing neon ones.

Q3: How do I remove or hide the lens?
Tap the ⓘ icon on any active lens → Remove Lens. It’ll disappear from your carousel.

Q4: Is the Butterfly Lens available on both Android and iOS?
Yes, but older devices may not render 3D effects smoothly due to ARCore/ARKit limitations.

Final Thoughts

Unlocking the Butterflies Lens on Snapchat in 2025 is easier than ever but what makes it special isn’t just its beauty. It represents how AR filters are evolving: from fun visual effects to expressive digital storytelling tools. Whether you unlock it via Snapcode, a friend’s link, or Lens Studio, this lens remains a timeless favorite for users who love creativity and movement in their snaps.