SLES is an abbreviation for sodium laureth sulfate, which is also known as sodium lauryl ether sulfate or sodium alkylethersulfate. It's a surfactant and anionic detergent that's used in many personal care products, such as shampoos, soaps, and toothpaste, and for industrial uses. SLES is a yellowish-white paste that creates a lather and helps remove dirt and oil. It's often considered a milder form of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which is another surfactant that's commonly found in shampoos. SLES is derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, which has a larger molecule size than SLS, and is thought to cause less skin and eye irritation. However, some studies suggest that SLES can still increase skin irritation and damage the skin barrier.

Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) is a synthetic soap and anionic surfactant that has many uses, including: 

Cleaning products

SLES is used in detergents, dishwashing, hand wash, and shower gels. It can help maintain the stability of liquid detergents in high-efficiency washing machines. 

Personal care products

SLES is used in many grooming products, such as shaving cream, lip balm, hand sanitizer, nail treatments, makeup remover, foundation, facial cleansers, exfoliants, and liquid hand soap. It's also used in hair products like shampoo, conditioner, hair dye, dandruff treatment, and styling gel. SLES can help prevent dryness and maintain the skin's overall health and balance. However, you should discontinue use if you experience any redness, itching, or irritation. 

Other uses

SLES is also used in the dyeing industry as a cleansing and foaming agent. It can help acids, such as fruit juices and kicks, to blend better with liquids. SLES can also help make light and fluffy marshmallows and dried egg products. In herbicides, it's used as a surfactant to improve absorption of the herbicidal chemicals.