Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (Assessment for 2002 [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Assessment for 2002 [Member]
Assessment of contingencies, including penalties and accruing interest, reduced	$ 34
Assessment Of Contingencies, Prior to Reductions	$ 80

Assessment of contingencies, including penalties and accruing interest, reduced

No definition available.

Name:	avp_AssessmentOfContingenciesIncludingPenaltiesAndAccruingInterestReduced
Namespace Prefix:	avp_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant