1. Have you tried after-shave instead of cologne? The main difference is after-shave has far less alcohol, and it's the alcohol that makes the stuff volatile and sinus-irritating. I believe, however, that the more you use it, the more de-sensitized your nose will get. Personally, I don't really wear it much because I find it so irritating to my nose. Even when I do use it, I only spray once, in the middle of my chest, and that's all I can handle.
2. There is a trend towards mixing essential oils to make one's own scent. There are recipes all over the internet, though I think it can be time-consuming. Alcohol is an emulsifier in perfumes/colognes, and without it, you kind of have to make stuff in small batches, otherwise, it just glops up. You could also just buy some oils and wipe some drops on you. Essential oils are very strong.
3. I'm also curious about this. If you find out something good, PM me.
