v2.4.0.8

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated (Parenthetical) (Detail) (China [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
China [Member] |  |  |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] |  |  |
China sales person compensation and service fee costs | $ 123.5 | $ 96.8 | $ 87.3

X
- Definition Independent service providers 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