For me it is usually a two step process. I first adjust the mask so that it resolves the tones I’m interested in to modify. Then I go to the basic adjustments tab and either use the sliders or use the scroll wheel over the image to modify tones. I don’t usually go back and forth.
However, I often do this with two instances of the tone equalizer. E.g. the first instance to adjust highlights around the sun or in the sky. It is amazing to have fine control over the contrast within the sky that way. Then maybe a second instance to brighten up some trees or a forest. But the process of adjusting the mask first to resolve the areas I’m interested in and then modifying the tones is the same.