The commenter's account being private does not stop your reply. When someone comments on your public post, Instagram lets your account send them a private reply, whether their own profile is public or private.
What can differ is where the message lands.
Where the DM lands
- They follow you: usually their main inbox.
- They do not follow you: usually their message requests.
- Their message settings are strict: possibly hidden requests.
This is the same for public and private accounts.
Your own account must be public
The account running the automation must be a public professional account. If your account is private, automation will not work.
Make sure they see it
- Say it in the reel: "Check your DMs, and requests if you don't follow me."
- Use a public reply under their comment: "Sent 📩 check requests!"
- Use a follow-gate so more people follow, which helps later messages reach the main inbox.
Related reading
- Why auto DMs go to message requests
- Why some commenters got the DM and others did not
- Auto DM for Instagram
Frequently asked questions
Can I see a private account's profile after they comment?
Only what Instagram shows you normally. Automation does not change privacy.
Will private-account commenters be saved in my contacts?
Yes, DM Flow saves everyone who triggers an automation, with their username.
Can someone block auto DMs?
They can block your account or turn off message requests, like for any account.