An image forming apparatus including a charging unit configured to charge a surface of an image bearing member utilizing discharge generated by applying a voltage containing an alternating current component to a charging member disposed in contact with or close to the image bearing member, so that a latent electrostatic image is formed on the image bearing member; a developing unit configured to develop the latent electrostatic image formed on the image bearing member using a toner; a cleaning unit configured to clean the surface of the image bearing member using a blade; a protecting agent applying unit configured to rub and scrape a protecting agent by a brush roller and apply the protecting agent to the surface of the image bearing member; and a protecting agent charging member configured to charge the protecting agent, the member being disposed between the protecting agent applying unit and the charging unit.