Public figures like U.S. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and actress Jada Pinkett Smith have helped raise awareness by speaking about alopecia areata. RELATED: 17 Things Not To Say To a Chronically Ill Loved OneFor non-scarring alopecia, including alopecia areata, Edwards explained that genetics play a major role. Other examples of non-scarring alopecia include traction alopecia, drug-related alopecia and metabolic or hormonal hair loss. Other forms of non-scarring alopecia include traction alopecia, drug-related alopecia, and hair loss caused by hormonal or metabolic conditions. Unlike scarring alopecia, treatment for alopecia areata has traditionally included topical or oral minoxidil and injectable or topical corticosteroids.