A rheology modifier which includes a mixture of short and long chain fatty acid esters is suitable for use in liquid surfactant-based compositions. A surfactant-based composition includes a surfactant, the rheology modifier, and water. The rheology modifier includes a mixture of alkyl glycoside fatty acid esters including a long chain fatty acid ester of an alkyl glycoside and a short chain fatty acid ester of an alkyl glycoside. The long chain fatty acid ester includes at least one fatty acid residue: R1(O)O—, wherein R1 is a C12 or higher hydrocarbon. The short chain fatty acid ester includes least one fatty acid residue: R2(O)O—, wherein R2 is a C6-C10 hydrocarbon.