The present invention provides for a composition comprising: (A) at least one compound represented by the formulaRO--(R').sub.n R"X.sup.- Y.sup.+wherein: R is a hydrocarbyl group of from about 6 to about 24 carbon atoms; R' is ethoxy, propoxy or a mixture thereof; R" is a divalent hydrocarbyl group of 1 to about 20 carbon atoms; X is a sulfate, sulfonate or carboxylate group; Y is a cation; and n is a number in the range of 1 to about 20; (B) at least one polymeric thickener; and (C) at least one aldehyde. The invention also relates to the foregoing compositions provided in the form of aqueous concentrates or the form of dry or substantially dry compositions, and to a method of making such concentrates or dry or substantially dry compositions. The invention also relates to an enhanced oil recovery process using the foregoing composition to provide a low-tension, viscous waterflood.