Hydrophobic inorganic fine particles are provided which: does not cause melt adhesion of toner to a photosensitive member and contamination of a contact charging member; imparts excellent flowability, charging performance and durability to toner even after the toner is stored in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment over a long time period; and does not cause dripping of toner and contamination with the toner. The hydrophobic inorganic fine particles are obtained by subjecting inorganic fine particles to surface treatment with silicone oil and then with a silane compound and/or a silazane compound, or by subjecting inorganic fine particles to surface treatment with a silane compound and/or a silazane compound in the presence of silicone oil, and further subjecting the inorganic fine particles thus surface-treated to surface treatment with silicone oil.