blackberry815
The main thing that helps me stretch are low manipulation hair styles. Currently, I'm wearing wigs as a protective style so I really don't have to mess with my hair too much during the week. I find that if I'm not in my hair, I don't really focus on having to get a relaxer.
I also make it a point to not comb my hair while it's dry. The only time I comb my hair is when it's wet and loaded with conditioner or leave in. To do otherwise is asking for trouble.
Other than that, I really make sure my moisture game is on point. The deeper I go into my stretch, I start to apply my DCs to my roots the same way I would a relaxer, I do hot oil treatments, and I may DC for longer periods of time.
That's really it for me. I tend to keep my regimen simple. Hope this helps!