Can you explain the discrepancy? "Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an anionic surfactant with protein denaturing potency, is a potent inhibitor of the infectivity of several enveloped (Herpes simplex viruses, HIV-1, Semliki Forest virus) and nonenveloped (papillomaviruses, reovirus, rotavirus and poliovirus) viruses... results suggest that SLS and LS, alone or combined, could represent potent candidates as microbicides in topical vaginal formulations to prevent the transmission of herpes and possibly other pathogens that cause sexually transmitted diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus type 1."
Either way, if it does no harm and helps in any way, good. If not, no worse off.
Regarding exfoliating, I'd be cautious as it removes some of the protective barrier and could create small abrasions that would increase risk of infection. Or at least limit like shaving to no sooner than two days before.
It's not exactly the same, well the main chemical is the same. But an SDS solution is SDS with MQH20 or ddH20 (extra filtered and purified water). An SLS solution is SDS mixed with other alkyl sulfate chain lengths then diluted with MQH20 or ddH20.
As such SLS has less effect than SDS and is very infective post exposure. Bathing the virus in them before contact, pretty much the same, but that's not we're talking about.
It's a subtle difference that's not so obvious straight away, because it is the same name for the same compound, but when you're talking chemical reagents (which are then uses in various products), it refers to two different refinement levels, and thus concentration, purity, and effectiveness.
Exfoliation certainly shouldn't be done too often, once a week at most, but is useful for preventing ingrown hairs when you're shaving, and build up of dry skin which can encourage cracks and breakage in the skin. And pair with a good moisturiser.