Is there a way to take off gel nails without acetone or going to the nail salon?

yes... how long have you had them on??? if there is any air gaps in the corners like they have tried to come off maybe do the dishes or take a hot bath and just let your hands stay in the water for a bit... the hot water will help with the glue... then you can get them off a bit easier... tho i would suggest going to the salon and letting them do that... it hurts less...