| Cover Document | Aug. 26, 2019 |
| Cover Page [Abstract] | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Written Communications | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 18, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Element Solutions Inc |
| Entity File Number | 001-36272 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 37-1744899 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 500 East Broward Boulevard, |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 1860 |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33394 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fort Lauderdale, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| City Area Code | 561 |
| Local Phone Number | 207-9600 |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Trading Symbol | ESI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001590714 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
