v2.4.0.6

Reconciliation of operating profit (loss) from segments to consolidated (Parenthetical) (Detail) (China, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
China salesperson compensation and service fee costs	$ 34.4	$ 25.2	$ 93.7	$ 70.7

X

- Definition

Foreign salesperson compensation and service fee costs.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	hlf_ForeignSalespersonCompensationAndServiceFeeCosts
Namespace Prefix:	hlf_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration