Abstract : Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) or melanosis with brown pigmented macules around the eyes is a common condition with limited scientific data on its clinical profile and pathogenesis. It has a multifactorial etiology including deposition of melanin in the dermis, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) due to contact or atopic dermatitis, shadow effect due to skin laxity and superficial vascularity. An observational study of one hundred clinically diagnosed cases of POH was carried out and demographic data as well as clinical patterns of involvement were noted. The highest prevalence of 42% was in the 21-30 years age group. Sixty-nine patients were female while 31 were male. Their occupational profile included housewives, students and agriculturists. The most common aggravating factor was sleep deprivation reported by 28% of patients. Family history of POH was noted in 27%. Atopic diathesis was observed in 8%. Symmetrical distribution was observed in 61%. The types of POH included the constitutional type in 34%, the shadow effects type in 22%, the PIH type in 20% and the vascular type in 17%. POH is a common aesthetic facial concern that variably affects those of different ethnicities. The most common type in those of Indian ethnicity is the constitutional type.