Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable, fluid, optically clear dispersions of two immiscible liquids. Recent interest in microemulsion systems has resulted from their utility in a broad range of applications including enhanced oil recovery, consumer and pharmaceutical formulations, nanoparticle synthesis, and chemical reaction media. However, the high levels typically required to ensure complete microemulsification and formulation stability often result in unacceptably high residue, contaminant levels, and formulation cost. One way to reduce: surfactant requirements in microemulsion systems is through the use of efficient surfactants and interfacially active cosurfactants. We have explored and developed microemulsion systems based on efficient anionic surfactants and glycol ether cosurfactants that are stable to temperature and compositional changes and yet employ low levels of non-volatile surfactants. These microemulsion systems are finding utility in a range of applications including consumer and industrial cleaning formulations, chemical reaction media, polymerization, and active ingredient delivery.