Convert Smart Objects to layers

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to unpack a Smart Object into its original layers in Adobe Photoshop so you can easily access and edit each one in the Layers panel.

You can convert an embedded or linked Smart Object back into its component layers in the document. If it contains multiple layers, Photoshop places them into a new group in the Layers panel. When you convert a multi-layer Smart Object in this way, Photoshop restores the original layers but discards any transforms or Smart Filters you have applied.

Select Window > Layers.

Select the Smart Object layer in the Layers panel.

Right-click the layer and select Convert To Layers.

The Layers panel is open, and a Smart Object layer is selected. A context menu is displayed with the Convert to Layers option highlighted.
Directly work with and modify each layer.

The Smart Object is converted, and its layers appear inside a folder in the Layers panel.

The Layers panel is open and a Smart Object is converted into a layer group. The original layers appear inside the group.
Make the Smart Object editable by turning it into separate layers.