Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Foreign exchange losses from translation of actuarial losses, prior service credit and translation obligation	$ 2.0	$ 5.6
Accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments realized upon sale of Avon Japan	(325.0)	(147.4)
Accumulated pension adjustments realized upon sale of Avon Japan	(515.9)	(443.8)
Asia Pacific [Member]
Accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments realized upon sale of Avon Japan		1.6
Accumulated pension adjustments realized upon sale of Avon Japan		$ 9.0

The total of net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.

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+ Details

- Definition

Accumulated adjustment, net of tax, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses.

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