How to blur images with Pixlr | Free browser processing to hide faces, text, and part of the background

Pixlr is an image processing tool that can be used in a browser, and can be used when you want to blur faces, backgrounds, or parts of photos. Suitable for people who want to edit images without installing an app, or who want to complete image processing on a PC. In some cases, you may choose to cover or cut out text instead of blurring it to hide text.

Steps to blur part of an image with Pixlr

1. Open the image on the Pixlr editing screen.

2. Select the Blur Tool, which looks like a water drop icon, from the toolbar.

3. Adjust the brush size to match the face and background you want to hide.

4. Set the strength to a moderate level, then drag the target area.

5. If it's not blurred enough, trace the same area over and over again.

6. Enlarge the image, check if any parts of the eyes, outline, numbers, or letters remain, then save.

Tips to hide your face and background naturally

When hiding a person's face, it is less likely that the border will look unnatural if you include a little of the hairline and surrounding skin, rather than blurring just the face. When hiding addresses or rooms in the background, do not trace only part of the text, but include the entire sign, slip, or screen.

If you want to hide text with Pixlr, don't just blur it

Pixlr's blur is useful for softening photos, but opaque shapes, fills, and cropping are safer for hiding names and numbers. The shorter the letter, the more likely it is that it can be guessed just by its shape. Copy the original image before editing to avoid erasing the necessary content.

What to check after using How to blur images with Pixlr

The main risk is leaving a small edge of text, a number, or a code visible after editing. When using How to blur images with Pixlr, make the edited area slightly larger than the target and open the exported file once before posting.

When using How to blur images with Pixlr, treat visual softening and redaction as separate jobs. For How to blur images with Pixlr, blur or mosaic can reduce detail, but sensitive text and codes are easier to check with an opaque cover.

Frequently asked questions

Does Pixlr blur images for free?

Pixlr has a blur tool that you can use in your browser. Terms of use and options for saving may change, so please check the export screen before starting processing.

Can I create mosaics using Pixlr?

Apart from the blur tool, you may be able to use filters and editing methods to create an expression similar to pixelation. If the purpose is to hide text, it is safer to cover it with a shape rather than using a mosaic expression.