CSS backface-visibility Property Reference

The CSS backface-visibility property is a standard property in CSS Transforms. Review its formal syntax, computed behavior, and practical declarations.

Updated 2026-08-12

backface-visibility overview

The CSS backface-visibility property is a standard property in CSS Transforms. Review its formal syntax, computed behavior, and practical declarations.

The property is not inherited by default. Use an explicit global keyword when inheritance is intended.

Syntax and formal definition

backface-visibility formal syntax

Field	Value
Formal syntax	visible \| hidden
Initial value	visible
Applies to	transformableElements
Inherited	No
Percentages	no
Computed value	asSpecified
Animation type	discrete
Media	visual
Specification group	CSS Transforms
Status	Standard

Practical examples

These declarations demonstrate valid ways to set backface-visibility. The initial and inherit global keywords remain available even when a property-specific value is preferable.

backface-visibility live example

CSS

.reset-example {
  backface-visibility: initial;
}

.inherit-example {
  backface-visibility: inherit;
}

@supports (backface-visibility: initial) {
  .supported {
    backface-visibility: initial;
  }
}