Device for applying at least one active principle, consisting of a material wherein one or several capsules or microcapsules containing the active principle(s) are distributed in a binder having a sponge-like consistency so that the active principle(s) is/are released when pressure is exerted on the material. The device consists of a first part (10) and a second part (12), separated by a tear-off portion (14), the capsule or most of the capsules or microcapsules being located in the first part close to the tear-off portion, the first part being detached from the second part by tearing the tear-off portion so as to obtain, at the breakage interface, a surface for applying the active principle(s) contained in the first part when pressure is exerted thereon.