According to certain embodiments of the invention, a valve guide or raised boss may be connected to or integral with a base or body of an aerosol actuator. In various embodiments, a valve guide may include a raised boss associated with a grip or body of an aerosol actuator. The valve guide or raised boss may align a manifold with a valve when an aerosol actuator is assembled to a container containing a product. In addition, a valve guide or raised boss may limit the movement of a portion of a manifold in a defined direction or defined plane such that the load on a valve by a manifold is controlled. For example, a valve guide may ensure a top load on a valve during actuation or may minimize side loads on a valve during actuation.