A method of detecting a need for regeneration of an exhaust particulate filter is described. A first pressure drop is detected in a flow section of an exhaust system which includes the exhaust particulate filter. In addition, an exhaust gas temperature is determined. An exhaust gas mass flow flowing through the exhaust particulate filter is then calculated on the basis of the exhaust gas temperature and the pressure drop. Furthermore, a second pressure drop at the exhaust particulate filter is determined. A need for regeneration is detected when the second pressure drop exceeds a predefined pressure limit value that is dependent on the exhaust gas mass flow. Moreover, an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine is presented which includes an exhaust particulate filter.